Chess Wizards Buzz
Holiday Gifts for Chess Players
on Sunday, Nov 27, 2022
If you’re looking for chess themed gifts this holiday season you’ve come to the right place.
Chess Vocabulary: Cramped Position
on Wednesday, Nov 23, 2022
One of the best ways to improve your chess game is to become familiar with the terminology used by chess players. This month you can learn a little more about what a ‘cramped position’ means in our favorite game.
Wizard of the Month Spotlight - November 2022 - Jacob Stoner
on Friday, Nov 18, 2022
Jacob Stoner is one of our super talented instructors from Maryland. He started teaching with Chess Wizards in the spring of 2022, and on top of being a skilled chess instructor, Jacob has spent time as a competitive sailor, and is also involved in beekeeping.
9 Tips For Teaching Chess To Young Children
on Friday, Nov 18, 2022
Teaching your child chess is a gift you give them for life. Chess brings out the imagination, improves critical thinking skills, helps children to recognize patterns – and best of all any child can learn to play!
Chess Vocabulary: Open File
on Friday, Nov 11, 2022
One of the best ways to improve your chess game is to become familiar with the terminology used by chess players. This month you can learn a little more about what an ‘open file’ means in our favorite game.
Some Of The Craziest Places People Have Played Chess
on Friday, Nov 04, 2022
While chess games are typically played at home, online, in school, or in public parks – some players definitely like to take the game to the extreme.
Chess Tournaments To Watch This Fall
on Friday, Oct 07, 2022
Check out our list of some exciting upcoming fall tournaments. Which ones are you most looking forward to tuning into?
Wizard of the Month Spotlight - September 2022 - Justin Stewart
on Friday, Sep 23, 2022
Justin Stewart is one of our amazing instructors from Dallas, Texas. Justin loves helping others and learning alongside his students. Between going to school to become a music teacher and teaching with Chess Wizards, he enjoys spending time with his family and regularly competing in Frisbee golf competitions.
Why Mistakes Are So Important
on Tuesday, Sep 20, 2022
"I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." - Thomas Edison
Super Cool Chess Sets For Kids
on Saturday, Sep 03, 2022
Check out our list of 10 of the coolest chess sets for kids that are just as much fun as they are educational.
8 Chess Confidence Boosters
on Thursday, Aug 25, 2022
If you have a child new to playing chess there are some simple things you can do to help boost their confidence, while teaching them valuable skills that will help them both on and away from the board.
5 Ways to Celebrate International Chess Day
on Thursday, Jul 28, 2022
Get in on the fun, and celebrate the game of chess all month long!
Strategy Games for Kids
on Thursday, Jun 30, 2022
Check out this list of kid-approved strategy games that you whole family will love!
5 Reasons Why Chess Wizards Summer Camps Rock!
on Thursday, May 26, 2022
There’s nothing better than spending a summer at camp filled with fun, friends, and memories that last a lifetime.
4 Things to Do After Winning a Chess Game
on Thursday, May 19, 2022
“It is your response to winning and losing that make you a winner or loser.” - Harry Sheehy
Amazing Chess Records
on Monday, May 16, 2022
Who doesn’t love fun trivia? Fun facts are great for breaking the ice, or impressing your friends or chess teacher!
Wizard of the Month Spotlight - April 2022 - Rachel Groome
on Friday, Apr 08, 2022
Check out our April 2022 instructor of the month - Rachel Groome from Seattle, WA.
Outstanding Wizard of the Month - March 2022 - David Vienick
on Thursday, Apr 07, 2022
Our Employee of the Month is David Vienick from New Jersey.
Wizard of the Month Spotlight - February 2022 - Aidan Casey
on Thursday, Apr 07, 2022
We couldn't stop with just one, so we would like to introduce you to our second February Employee of the Month. Aidan Casey of Alhambra, CA.
Wizard of the Month Spotlight - February 2022 - Jacob Hollis
on Thursday, Apr 07, 2022
Our Employee of the Month is Jacob Hollis from Boston, MA. He is an amazing and dependable teacher who goes above and beyond for his students.
Is Chess All About Winning
on Saturday, Apr 02, 2022
When it comes to sports and activities, we live in a world that loves to see their favorite players or teams win. And while players work hard with the hopes of winning - is that all that these activities and sports are about?
Chess Podcasts to Follow
on Monday, Mar 28, 2022
Podcasts are all the rage right now – and new ones are being created all the time. Fortunately for chess enthusiasts, there are some highly rated podcasts dedicated solely to chess content.
Creativity and Chess – Cool Chess Crafts for Kids
on Saturday, Mar 05, 2022
In a physical sense, chess is just a board with 64 squares and a bunch of pieces, but with creativity and imagination, the game is brought to life!
History of Chess Clocks
on Thursday, Feb 24, 2022
Before the invention of the chess clock, a game of chess was a serious time commitment. Check out a little history of one of the most essential parts of the game.
7 Reasons Why Chess Is So Fun
on Wednesday, Feb 16, 2022
Chess is one of the most popular games in the world. And for good reason - it’s so much fun! Here’s a look at 7 reasons who chess is such a fun game to play.
Chess Boxing – Where Physical and Intellectual Stamina Combine
on Thursday, Feb 03, 2022
Did you know there’s a sport that combines physical strength with chess? Chess boxing combines these two extremes – both physical and intellectual stamina.
Humor and Chess - 2 Signs of True Intelligence
on Thursday, Jan 27, 2022
What do humor and chess have in common? They both require a high level of intelligence!
We hope you enjoy these chess puns and jokes, and have some fun reading these together with your child.
Chess Resolutions for the New Year
on Thursday, Jan 13, 2022
The new year is a time when many people are making resolutions. If you or your child is a chess player, why not make some chess related resolutions for the new year! We have some great ideas for goals that are attainable and will help you improve your game.
Creating a Classroom Where Students are Comfortable Losing and Learning from Defeat
on Thursday, Jan 13, 2022
Check out these simple things you can do to create a classroom environment where students look at “failure” as a learning opportunity.
Chess Biography - The Polgar Sisters
on Monday, Jan 10, 2022
The Polgar sisters from Hungary, are possibly the most amazing chess playing siblings in the world!
5 Chess Movies to Watch Over Winter Break
on Monday, Dec 20, 2021
Grab a blanket, and get cozy with these awesome chess themed movies you and your child are sure to enjoy over winter break!
Jolly Chess Themed DIY Christmas Ornament Ideas for Kids
on Monday, Dec 13, 2021
Creating art that can be hung on the Christmas tree is a wonderful way to spend time together and create treasured memories during the holiday season. What's even better is that all these ornament craft ideas are made out of chess pieces! Perfect for your young player.
Why is Chess So Popular Right Now
on Thursday, Dec 02, 2021
Chess has always been popular – but in the past two years its popularity has grown like never before!
Let's look at three major contributing factors that brought people to the game over the last two years.
Beginner Chess, Where to Start
on Friday, Nov 26, 2021
If you are new to chess, you may find yourself looking at a board and feeling like learning the game will be a daunting task. Truth is, there is a lot to learn, but once you get the hang of it you may end up wondering why you hadn’t started earlier.
Advice from Chess Grandmasters
on Monday, Nov 15, 2021
Whether you are looking for inspiration, or for a push to continue challenging yourself in the game – we think these words of advice from Grandmasters and seasoned chess players will leave you feeling inspired and eager improve your game.
Christmas Gifts for Chess Players
on Monday, Nov 08, 2021
While we don’t want to rush through Thanksgiving, Christmas is right around the corner. It can be tough to find the right gifts for the people around you, however if you have a chess enthusiast in your life, we think these unique gifts will take the stress out of your holiday shopping.
Benefits to Assuming Your Opponent is Better Than You
on Thursday, Oct 28, 2021
“Always assume that your opponent is going to be bigger, stronger and faster than you; so that you learn to rely on technique, timing and leverage rather than brute strength.” -Helio Gracie
Handling Defeat in Chess
on Thursday, Oct 21, 2021
Chess is a game full of emotions. We try our best to play well and win, but games don’t always go according to plan.
Here are some tips to deal with frustration the next time you lose in chess.
Insanely Cool Chess Boards
on Thursday, Oct 14, 2021
There’s a whole world of cool and unique chess sets just waiting to be added to your collection!
How to Become a Chess Grandmaster
on Tuesday, Oct 05, 2021
There are millions of chess players in the world, but only a little over 1,900 chess players have earned the title of Grandmaster.
Who is Abhimanyu Mishra? The Youngest Grandmaster in the World
on Thursday, Sep 23, 2021
At just 12 years old, Abhimanyu Mishra has become the youngest Grandmaster in the world.
6 Life Lessons from the Game of Chess
on Tuesday, Sep 14, 2021
Some of the most important lessons in life can be learned through the game of chess!
Chess 101: Basics, History, and Fun Facts About the World's Most Popular Game
on Thursday, Sep 09, 2021
It's never too late to learn how to play chess—the most popular game in the world!
Whether you are new to the game or looking to impress your friends with some cool facts – we can help you learn a little more about chess with part 1 of this beginners guide.
10 Reasons Why Your Child Should Start Playing Chess as a Young Age
on Wednesday, Sep 08, 2021
Since people develop the majority of their skills during their childhood years, it only makes sense to have your child take chess classes at a young age.
Perks of Working for Chess Wizards
on Wednesday, Sep 01, 2021
Want to know what it's like to be a teacher with Chess Wizards? Read on!
Kosteniuk Wins Women's World Cup | 2021 FIDE World Cup: All the Information
on Tuesday, Aug 17, 2021
Grandmaster Alexandra Kosteniuk won the 2021 Women's FIDE World Cup after drawing her second game with Grandmaster Aleksandra Goryachkina on Monday.
Recognizing Outstanding Wizards - August 2021
on Monday, Aug 16, 2021
Amanda is an amazing teacher, who really knows how to make her classroom fun!
She teaches chess classes both in-person and online, and still makes time to help train new staff members.
Thank you Amanda for your hard work and dedication to Chess Wizards!
Board Games that Develop Thinking Abilities and Teach Life Skills
on Friday, Aug 06, 2021
When children go to school they’re taught reading, writing, and math, but what about life skills? Luckily, your kids can easily learn and thing or two about real life and the real world through fun, educational board games.
Tips for Teaching Good Sportsmanship
on Wednesday, Jun 30, 2021
Being a good sport means being able to win without bragging, respecting your opponents, and losing gracefully. Playing chess is an excellent way to learn and practice this important life skill.
With these tips, and a little practice, your child can become the definition of good sportsmanship!
Improving Your Chess Game
on Thursday, Jun 24, 2021
While learning how to play chess can be easy, improving your chess game can be hard. Everyone learns at different speeds, and it can take years of practice to get to where you want to be.
Super Cool Chess Books for Kids
on Friday, Jun 18, 2021
by Rachel Wells
Looking to nurture your child’s interest in the game of chess?
A great chess book is a great way to start!
Summer Camp Rocks
on Wednesday, Jun 09, 2021
by Rachel Wells
Summer camps offer a unique structured opportunity for children to grow and learn new skills while becoming more independent, self-confident, and social. It is critical that children continue to learn and grow during the summer months – and children who attend summer camps reap tons of benefits.
10 Ways to Grab (and Keep!) Your Students’ Attention
on Wednesday, Jun 09, 2021
by Rachel Wells
If you are looking for ways to grab and KEEP your students’ attention during your lessons, it’s time to get creative and try some of these fun ideas that can be used right away.
Benefits of Teaching Children to Play Chess
on Wednesday, Jun 09, 2021
by Rachel Wells
Chess is a game often synonymous with intelligence, and has been proven in many studies to be an excellent exercise for the brain. While chess may not help your biceps, your mental health can greatly benefit from playing. Chess has been proven to increase your IQ, improve memory function, help develop higher levels of creativity, simultaneously exercise both sides of the brain, help prevent Alzheimer’s and dementia, and increase a child’s problem solving skills.
Chess Wizards Running 2019 Chicago Marathon
on Wednesday, Jun 09, 2021
by Rachel Wells
One of our own, Artem Ishchenko, teamed up with Girls on the Run, to run the Chicago Marathon, and raise money for this amazing program. Girls on the Run is an activity based youth development program for girls ages 8 – 14. The organization was created to inspire girls to be healthy and confident, and inspire every girl to believe in their limitless potential. Their curriculum integrates running and physical activities into all their lessons. More than 85% of the girls that participate in the Girls on the Run program receive some sort of financial assistance.
Stalemate
on Friday, Jun 12, 2020
by Rob Brose
A stalemate is a tie game. In a chess tournament, it is worth a half point, so it is a much more preferable outcome than a big fat zero when you lose.
Recognizing Outstanding Wizards
on Friday, Jun 12, 2020
Sheoli has been an instructor with Chess Wizards for 3 years in the DC area. Sheoli is a great instructor and we really value her at Chess Wizards. She really enjoys working with kids and the schools love her. Sheoli has a very kind way about her and is able to make kids excited about chess. Thank you Sheoli for being an amazing chess instructor!
FIDE Women’s Grand Prix 2019-2020
on Friday, Jun 12, 2020
The FIDE Women’s Grand Prix 2019-2020, is a series of four chess tournaments exclusively for women. The results of this tournament will qualify two players who will play in the Women’s Candidates Chess Championship in 2021.
The winner of the Candidate’s tournament will play a 12-game match against the world champion. Koneru Humpy from India, won the Sklolkovo FIDE Women’s Grand Prix, by making a draw in the final round against the reigning Women’s Champion Ju Wenjun from China. The “Indian Ace” won her first major championship after returning to competitive chess since the Batumi Olympiad in 2018.
September Vocabulary: Promotion
on Friday, Jun 12, 2020
Promotion in chess is a rule that requires a pawn that reaches its eighth rank to be immediately replaced by the player’s choice of a queen, knight, rook, or bishop. The new piece replaces the pawn as part of the same move. The choice of new piece is not limited to pieces previously captured, therefor promotion can result in a player owning two or more queens.
To Ask or Not to Ask? That is the Question...
on Friday, Jun 12, 2020
One of the most important things you can do in your class is to create a safe place for your students to learn. I always want my students to feel comfortable enough to be able to be themselves, which includes being able to ask questions confidently, and without feeling intimidated. From the very first day, in my introductory talk, I always tell my students that I love questions, and that there is no such thing as a silly question.
Take Me Chess
on Friday, Jun 12, 2020
by Rob Brose
How many times have you moved a piece, maybe your Queen, to a square you thought was safe, maybe were even thinking, “Muahahahahaha! On my next move I’m going to checkmate their King, and win the game! This is going to be epic!
Racing Kings
on Friday, Jun 12, 2020
by Rob Brose and Tim Dobbs
This variation game was first introduced to me by the great Wizard extraordinaire, Tim Dobbs, who is one of our Program Directors here at Chess Wizards. I don’t claim he’s the one who invented it, but he gets the credit for bringing this fun, challenging chess game to our classrooms.
Pawntastic
on Friday, Jun 12, 2020
by Rob Brose
Pawntastic is the game we play with new students on their first day of chess class. It is a simple game that can be challenging in its own right, and is also great for practicing all of the other chess pieces.
Alien Colonization
on Friday, Jun 12, 2020
by Rob Brose
Today, Kids, Wizards and Readers, we are embarking upon our first journey to Kepler-438b, a planet orbiting in the ‘goldilocks zone’ of its red dwarf star, 470 light-years from our planet Terra. We have located an area that is ideal for human habitation which you should see on screen momentarily (it looks strikingly similar to an empty chess board).
Chess Wizards is Hiring Nationwide
on Friday, Jun 12, 2020
Do you think you have what it takes to be a Wizard? Chess Wizards is always looking for qualified, enthusiastic individuals who can make education fun. Our instructors...
The Knight
on Friday, Jun 12, 2020
With a high-pitched scream loud enough to cut through the clash and clang of the battlefield, the mighty war horse blocks the sun from your view as it rears on powerful hindquarters, pumping its sharp hooves as if swimming in air. You need to dodge before you’re sliced and crushed, but where? A horse on two legs can easily pivot left or right from its original direction… just like it does in chess, and the consequences on the board can be as devastating as they are in any battlefield! So, what can we do with this horsey on the board? Quite a bit, actually!
En Passant – The Goofiest Chess Rule
on Friday, Jun 12, 2020
by Rob Brose
To try and help you visualize and define En Passant (Meaning: "in passing"), this strange, esoteric rule of chess, you’re going to need a 50 lb bucket of live octopus (slime would be a cheaper, more humane, but less interesting alternative), an extra bucket of seawater, chalk, a blanket, a bowl of homemade soup, $50, and a volunteer. Preferably a gullible one.
October Vocabulary: Desperado
on Friday, Jun 12, 2020
Desperado is a Spanish word meaning ‘Out of Hope, or Desperate’.
In chess, a desperado is a piece that is en prise or trapped, but captures an enemy piece before it is captured itself.
Recognizing Outstanding Wizards - March 2020
on Monday, Mar 16, 2020
Sandra Gibbons, OR
Sandra has been at Chess Wizards since August, 2019 and is an enthusiastic and dedicated instructor. Sandra is well organized, creative, and always wants to make sure her students have a great experience.
Bishop Basics
on Friday, Mar 13, 2020
The bishop piece may be the most challenging one on the board to truly master, but it is also one of the most important. Continue reading to learn about the history, uses, and role of the bishop.
Recognizing Outstanding Wizards – February 2020
on Thursday, Feb 20, 2020
Wil Coloma, WA
Wil is a lead instructor in WA who has been teaching with Chess Wizards for almost a year and a half. He has a great attitude, a wonderful sense of humor, and is always a big hit with both the schools and the students. He is extremely reliable and subs whenever he can. Wil also helps to train new instructors and he always gets great feedback from them, saying that he runs an awesome class! I’ve done a few classes with Wil and he makes sure his students have fun while learning at the same time. One of Wil’s greatest assets is his sense of humor that he uses in the classroom. His dedication to Chess Wizards is something to be admired.
Recognizing Outstanding Wizards - January 2020
on Friday, Jan 17, 2020
Robin McQuinn, WA
Robin is a lead instructor in WA who has been teaching with Chess Wizards for over a year. Her sense of humor and work ethic are two of the things that schools and students both love about Robin. She puts her heart and soul into each class, and will always help out whenever she can, be it subbing for other instructors, training new instructors, or teaching classes that we really need her to teach. She does everything with a great sense of humor and a wonderful attitude.
Simple Chess Games to Play With Your Kids
on Tuesday, Oct 22, 2019
You don’t have to be a chess expert to enjoy a game of chess. In fact, you might be surprised to know that there are chess games you can play without fully knowing all the rules! Although I love the standard game, all of these ‘chess variation games’
Recognizing Outstanding Wizards: Amy Hayes
on Sunday, Oct 13, 2019
Amy has been with Chess Wizards for over two years and is one of the best instructors in IL. She has a great knowledge of chess, and the schools love her! Amy is very responsible and is always willing to go the extra mile, help out, and to sub. She pays attention to detail, has a great attitude, and is very passionate about teaching!
National Chess Day!
on Monday, Oct 07, 2019
Former U.S. President Gerald Ford announced the first National Chess Day on October 9th, 1976. Ever since, National Chess Day has been celebrated on the second Saturday in October. President Ford’s purpose in recognizing a National Chess Day, was to encourage individuals to engage in a game of chess and enhance their critical thinking skills.
The Chess Rules
on Saturday, Aug 03, 2019
by Rob Brose
This isn’t the only place on the internet you can find the rules of chess, but it is by far the best. Why? We have a sense of humor, for starters.
Welcome to the New Chess Wizards Website
on Thursday, Aug 22, 2013
We’ve spent the entire year working on an easier-to-use, more informative and interactive website. Registration is easier than it’s ever been. And once...